Blomkvist’s sentence is reduced to two months, and he returns to Hedeby Island after a relatively undramatic stay at Rullåker Prison. The cat, Tjorven, greets him at his cabin. After unpacking, Blomkvist visits Vanger and then Cecilia; both are surprised by his early release. Cecilia seems disturbed by his presence and asks him to leave. Later in the evening, she explains that she has fallen in love with him. Knowing that his stay in Hedeby is temporary, she explains that she fears getting hurt but is willing to continue their romance. She spends the night at his cabin.

The next morning, Erika Berger enters Blomkvist’s cabin without knocking and apologizes for intruding on the two lovers. Berger is embarrassed and Cecilia attempts to accept the unconventional dynamics of Blomkvist and Berger’s relationship. During her visit, Berger stays in Vanger’s guest room and informs Blomkvist that the magazine has increased in subscriptions and ad revenue since Vanger’s participation. She is increasing coverage of women’s issues since most of the new subscribers are women. After a week of consideration, Cecilia ends her affair with Blomkvist and the two agree to a friendship. Cecilia requests that he give her some space.